event report
DAY 1 - Welcome and Official Opening of the Event
The first day marked the official opening of the conference, welcoming speakers and participants while introducing the event's central themes: consciousness, the brain, psychology, and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of the human mind.
This opening session set the academic and human tone that characterized the conference, fostering an environment of dialogue, knowledge exchange, and shared reflection. Through a series of lectures and discussions, participants explored diverse perspectives on consciousness and examined how disciplines such as psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and contemplative studies address fundamental questions concerning the nature of the mind and human experience.
DAY 2 - Conference Development
The second day was dedicated to the continued development of the conference and provided a space for exchange and academic reflection, deepening the diverse perspectives on consciousness, psychology, neuroscience, and scientific research.
The presentations allowed participants to engage with diverse and complementary perspectives on the mind and human experience. The day was characterized by interdisciplinary dialogue and active audience participation, generating opportunities for reflection and the exchange of current knowledge on consciousness and the human mind.
The questions, comments, and discussions that emerged throughout the conference enriched the academic experience, enabling participants to contrast perspectives, explore new ideas, and delve deeper into topics of significant scientific and philosophical relevance.
DAY 3 - Conference closing
The third day marked the academic and symbolic conclusion of the conference.
During this final day, the conference's last activities, lectures, and spaces for reflection took place, consolidating the knowledge, experiences, and connections developed throughout the event.
The questions, comments, and conversations that emerged during the sessions significantly enriched the academic experience, enabling participants to engage with different perspectives, explore new ideas, and deepen discussions on topics of great scientific, philosophical, and human relevance. The various spaces for exchange fostered dynamic dialogue among speakers and attendees, promoting critical reflection and the analysis of diverse approaches to the study of consciousness. Furthermore, this final day strengthened the sense of academic community and encouraged meaningful encounters among researchers, professionals, students, and participants from diverse backgrounds.
About the Conference
The Consciousness and the Brain conference will bring together neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy experts to share advances and foster interdisciplinary debate. It will be the first event of its kind in South America and will take place in Cuenca, Ecuador.
The California Institute for Human Science, the California Institute of Integral Studies, the Society for Consciousness Studies, the Institute of Neuroscience and The Pari Center supports this conference to promote local scientific research and create a global academic exchange space. It will feature keynote lectures, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, establishing Cuenca as a key center for the study of the mind and brain.
KEY SPEAKERS
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KEY SPEAKERS -
principal Topics
Alex Gómez- Marín, PHD
“Does the mind survive brain death?”
Dr. Fernanda Palhano, PHD
“The science of DMT in Brazil: from brain mechanisms to clinical applications”
Dr. Stanley Kripper, PHD
“Shamans, shamanism and altered consciuness”
Dr. Sharon G. Mijares
“Non-local experience and indigenous conciouness in the age of science and AI”
Stuart Hameroff, MD
“Correlates of qualia in microtubule “Time Crystal” dynamics”
MST. Johanna Pozo Neira
“Neuroscience of consciousness: how the brain perceives the world”
Call for Papers !
Every great discovery starts with an idea. Share your research with the academic community by submitting your abstract or presenting your poster design for the poster session. This is your chance to contribute to the interdisciplinary dialogue and showcase your work at an international event. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the conversation on Consciousness and the Brain!
Conference Schedule
ceremony
“san pedro”
The San Pedro ceremony is an Andean ritual that uses the cactus Echinopsis pachanoi (San Pedro cactus) to induce expanded states of consciousness for spiritual and healing purposes.
It is guided by a shaman or facilitator and seeks inner connection, reflection, and emotional balance.
conference dinner 1
Situated in a strategic area of Cuenca, Dos Sucres delivers a distinctive culinary experience in the city. Led by chef Daniel Contreras, this contemporary Ecuadorian restaurant is renowned for its collaboration with local producers and authentic flavors, offering menus that blend tradition and creativity in a warm and welcoming setting.
conference dinner 2
Situated in a traditional building in Cuenca, La Guarida is a place that awakens your senses. Upon entering, you won't know what captivated you more: the charm of its original architecture or the aroma and vibrant colors of its dishes.
“Life is a journey from mystery to mystery. That is the wonder and terror of being human”.
-Allan L. Combs (1942-2025) Psychologist.